The Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network has been recognised for its decade-long work around mental health awareness and education. The Solace Place project in Boat Harbour, the annual Walk With Us campaign and proposed labyrinth were all identified as key initiatives when the network took out the Mental Health Promotions and Wellbeing Award. Newly elected network chairperson Michael Murray and longtime secretary Elizabeth Schiemer attended the presentation ceremony, which was part of the launch for Mental Health Month conducted on September 27. A business consultant and director from Raymond Terrace, Michael Murray and wife Margaret are the network’s newest recruits. “Strategically the group is well positioned and the focus around suicide and mental health education and awareness will continue,” Mr Murray said. “Our next major project involves the transformation of an environmentally-friendly labyrinth at Solace Place, projected to cost around $50,000. We are also looking to work closer with other volunteer organisations.” The network also supports suicide prevention training programs with Wesley, with the next free training course to be offered on October 25 at Nelson Bay Bowling Club.

The Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network has been recognised for its decade-long work around mental health awareness and education.

The Solace Place project in Boat Harbour, the annual Walk With Us campaign and proposed labyrinth were all identified as key initiatives when the network took out the Mental Health Promotions and Wellbeing Award.

Newly elected network chairperson Michael Murray and longtime secretary Elizabeth Schiemer attended the presentation ceremony, which was part of the launch for Mental Health Month conducted on September 27.

A business consultant and director from Raymond Terrace, Michael Murray and wife Margaret are the network’s newest recruits.

“Strategically the group is well positioned and the focus around suicide and mental health education and awareness will continue,” Mr Murray said.

“Our next major project involves the transformation of an environmentally-friendly labyrinth at Solace Place, projected to cost around $50,000. We are also looking to work closer with other volunteer organisations.”

The network also supports suicide prevention training programs with Wesley, with the next free training course to be offered on October 25 at Nelson Bay Bowling Club.